The way we work has changed. Smart, responsive employers are offering talented workers flexibility. This has led to increased remote work and the growth of the digital nomad community. Now, work doesn't always have to be a roadblock to travel. Instead, we can incorporate our wanderlust with the need to earn money.
If you're one of the fortunate women who can enjoy life as a digital nomad, beautiful Vietnam may be on your list of places to live. If so, this guide is for you.
Getting The Paperwork Done
Whether you plan to go for just a short visit, or you plan on starting a new life in any country. The most important step is to ensure that you have all of your paperwork in order. Work permits that will allow you to legally work in the country that you wish to live in, visas that give you special permission to stay for a certain period of time, lodging, and so much more. All of this paperwork can be a daunting task for a beginner. However, so long as you have some basic knowledge this paperwork is a lot scarier in looks than it is.
Ensuring a Valid Passport
Did you know that in most countries they may not allow you access if your passport is set to expire within 6 months? This can be a huge issue for obvious reasons so it is best to ensure that you have a valid passport at all times. To get this taken care of you can either visit your local post office or courthouse and request the proper forms. Or you can use one of the government's websites and use their guides to order your passport.
Procuring the Correct Visa
When it comes to traveling to another country you need to be able to procure the proper visa based on the visit you are making. Like many countries, Vietnam offers people coming from a wide range of countries a variety of Visa options each one based on a different type of visit. A few of these options include;
Tourist: The most common visa type, commonly used for those who are visiting the country for a short period. This visa type is usually valid for only 3 months and is great for those who are simply looking to visit the country on a short-term or temporary basis.
Business: This visa type is made for those who wish to temporarily conduct business in the country. It offers an initial legal stay of up to 6 months, however, this visa can also be potentially approved for a 6-month extension. This Visa is great for those who wish to work in the country, but are unsure if they wish to live there or not.
Work: This visa type allows a person to stay in a country for up to 6 years. It allows for employment in the country, as well as gives you permission to run your own business once you have settled into the country. This visa option is the perfect option if you wish to seek out potential permanent residency in a country.
Now that we have gone over the basic visa types, the question is how do you procure one, and how do you procure the correct one for what you wish to use it for?
Pay attention to your application, the biggest mistake anyone can make is to fill out the application based on what you think is correct rather than what you know is correct. Make sure you fit the requirements, that you have a credit/debit card for payment, and that you have a passport as well as a good photo for your visa if for some reason they do not wish to allow you to use your passport photo.
Permission to Work
While you may not require a work permit to be a remote worker in the country of Vietnam, it is still an important step to ensure that you are well informed about the rules and regulations. In fact, many countries will not even think of granting more than a tourist visa if you do not have the proper work permits in order. As the number of digital nomads continues to rise and the regulations change because of this rise, it is important to ensure that you can meet the requirements especially if you choose to stay long-term.
Why Choose Vietnam as a Digital Nomad?
Around the world there are many countries in which you can choose to live as a digital nomad, so what makes Vietnam such an alluring place for digital nomads?
To begin, the technical infrastructure in Vietnam is one of the most crucial factors as to why so many digital nomads choose this country as their base. With fast and reliable internet connections almost anywhere in the country. As well as many of the major cities such as Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi offer many different coworking spaces for remote workers as well as many cafes and restaurants each offering high-speed wifi. This type of internet infrastructure ensures that you will always be able to stay connected and productive at all times.
There is also the allure that Vietnam has as a country. Vietnam is a beautiful, southeast Asian country that sits in a tropical climate. With friendly people, lots of delicious foods, and of course a wonderful mixture of the modern day as well as the traditional attributes. With all of this, the lower cost of living is commonly seen as a bonus for those who wish to live there.
What is There to Do in Vietnam?
All work and no play make for a dull dull life. We cannot possibly imagine life in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world as a life where you only work. After all, you will likely choose any place to live in based on what there is to do there rather than how much you can work. Here are just some of the things you can do while you live out your digital nomad life in Vietnam.
Exploring the Country: Vietnam is a beautiful country that sits right at the ocean. With multiple seaside shores, diverse landscapes, ancient architecture, and so much more. You can spend entire days just walking around and enjoying the scenery around you.
Cuisine: If your appetites drive your choices in destination, you will be happy to land in Vietnam. This cuisine is spicy, vibrant, and healthy.
Is fine dining your vibe? Try Opus Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City or Louis Restaurant in Hanoi. These are sure to impress the most discerning critic.
That said, Vietnam is all about street food. You can quite literally eat from the time you get up in the morning until after your last evening cocktail. Don't miss:
- Banh Mi
- Cafe Sua Da
- Green Papaya Salad
- Rice Paper Omelet
- Egg Coffee
- Beef Noodle Soup
- Sea Snails
- Hoi An Noodles
- Spring Rolls
- Vermicelli With Spicy Tofu
Banh Mi., enjoy a baguette the Vietnamese way.
Culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture to get the absolute most out of your time in Vietnam. Get to know the locals. Take a course to learn the language, at least as much as you can. Learn about the history of Vietnam from a new perspective. Enjoy events and festivals during your stay. Don't forget to reach out and connect to other nomads. Use this app to make some romantic connections or simply hang out with other travellers.
Choose The Right City For You
Many cities in Vietnam are friendly to digital nomads, but three stand out in particular.
Da Nang
If chill is your speed, consider Da Nang. It's home to gorgeous beaches and an easygoing vibe. It's the smaller of the three cities which may appeal to women seeking a more intimate experience.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City or HCMC is the largest city in Vietnam. This is a place that is full of energy, and you won't lack any modern amenities.
Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital city and Vietnam's historical and cultural centre. It's also friendly for anyone seeking a thriving, modern lifestyle.
Where to Work When You Arrive
You could work in your apartment or hotel room. Almost any place you choose will have the connectivity you need, but isn't the point of all of this to get out and explore?
Every major city in Vietnam will offer some combination of co-working spaces, casual restaurants, and cafes. These are ideal for enjoying a great view and people-watching. You'll also find digital nomads dotting the beaches as they enjoy the sun while getting some work done.
A Beautiful Place That's Worth a Visit
Vietnam has the ideal combination of low cost of living, infrastructure, and beauty. Add it to your bucket list of destinations to experience this stunning country for yourself.
